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#Interview + #Giveaway: DEATH BY THE RIVER by Alexandrea Weis & Lucas Astor

Described as “American Psycho” set in high school, this October release is for all you looking for a twisted, terrifying read. Today, I’m joined by half of the writing duo behind Death by the River to talk about her experience co-writing such a dark YA novel, and what else is in store from the two. Plus, enter to win a $20 Amazon gift card at the end!

Q&A with Alexandrea Weis

To set the mood, what could someone do to you to keep you quiet?

I get quiet when I get bored. So, if someone bores me, I tend to start thinking of the next book I’m working on and tune out.

Why did you want to tell this story, especially considering its violent content?

Death by the River is a collaboration between Lucas Astor and me. After I teamed up with him on the multi-award-winning Magnus Blackwell Series, he felt my experience as a nurse with victims of sexual assault could breathe life into the characters who suffer at the hands of the psychologically twisted Beau Devereaux. My understanding of mental health issues also brought to life Beau’s decline into depravity. This is a cautionary tale for women, but for teen girls, especially.

Was the character of Beau inspired by any real or fictional people?

Being a nurse for over twenty-five years, there is a lot of my experience in the character of Beau. I based him on people I knew and those I worked with.

Are you hoping readers come away with any particular feelings or beliefs?

Every woman has the right to be treated with respect. Every woman has a voice. Every woman has the right to say no and be heard. Know your own value and it will be easier to avoid men like Beau Devereaux and avoid potentially harmful relationships. Listen to your gut. And, if he seems too good to be true—he usually is.

What was the co-writing process like? Was anything easier or more difficult than you anticipated?

Lucas and I have worked well together on several series, including The Magnus Blackwell Series. We find our taste for twisted characters and horrific tales makes us a great fit.

Are there any details or scenes that you are particularly proud about?

The scenes between Gage, Beau’s father, and Beau are my favorites in the story. Much of what his son is and does is the result of his father’s browbeating. I felt their relationship was crucial for getting into Beau’s mind.

Are you planning to work together on any more stories?

The next installment of our Magnus Blackwell Series, Seize, is coming out Spring 2019, and our Sci-fi/Thriller series, The Chimera Effect, debuts next fall. And we have completed the first book in a YA Supernatural/Thriller Series, 4 for the Devil.

About Death by the River by Alexandrea Weis & Lucas Astor

Published by: Vesuvian Books

Publication date: October 2nd 2018

Genres: Young Adult, Horror

A high school “American Psycho.”

SOME TRUTHS ARE BETTER KEPT SECRET.

SOME SECRETS ARE BETTER OFF DEAD.

Along the banks of the Bogue Falaya River, sits the abandoned St. Francis Seminary. Beneath a canopy of oaks, blocked from prying eyes, the teens of St. Benedict High gather here on Fridays. The rest of the week belongs to school and family—but weekends belong to the river.

And the river belongs to Beau Devereaux.

The only child of a powerful family, Beau can do no wrong. Handsome. Charming. Intelligent. The star quarterback of the football team. The “prince” of St. Benedict is the ultimate catch.

He is also a psychopath.

A dirty family secret buried for years, Beau’s evil grows unchecked. In the shadows of the ruined St. Francis Abbey, he commits unspeakable acts on his victims and ensures their silence with threats and intimidation. Senior year, Beau sets his sights on his girlfriend’s headstrong twin sister, Leslie, who hates him. Everything he wants but cannot have, she will be his ultimate prize.

As the victim toll mounts, it becomes crystal clear that someone has to stop Beau Devereaux.

About Alexandrea Weis

Alexandrea Weis is an advanced practice registered nurse who was born and raised in New Orleans. Having been brought up in the motion picture industry, she learned to tell stories from a different perspective and began writing at the age of eight. Infusing the rich tapestry of her hometown into her award-winning novels, she believes that creating vivid characters makes a story memorable. A permitted/certified wildlife rehabber with the Louisiana Wildlife and Fisheries, Weis rescues orphaned and injured wildlife. She lives with her husband and pets in New Orleans.

About Lucas Astor

Lucas Astor is from New York, has resided in Central America and the Middle East, and traveled through Europe. He lives a very private, virtually reclusive lifestyle, preferring to spend time with a close-knit group of friends than be in the spotlight.

He is an author and poet with a penchant for telling stories that delve into the dark side of the human psyche. He likes to explore the evil that exists, not just in the world, but right next door behind a smiling face.

Photography, making wine, and helping endangered species are just some of his interests. Lucas is an expert archer and enjoys jazz, blues, and classical music.

One of his favorite quotes is: “It’s better to be silent than be a fool.” ~Harper Lee (To Kill a Mockingbird)

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